MOBILE, Ala. — South Alabama will not allow artificial noisemakers at its home football games this season, a policy that includes the cowbells Mississippi State fans traditionally ring at games.
The rule will draw the most attention on Sept. 13, when the Jaguars host Mississippi State at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. The game is expected to be a sellout.
Schools Coordinate on Message
South Alabama officials have contacted their counterparts at Mississippi State to explain the policy. They hope the information reaches Bulldog fans before they travel to Mobile.
The Southeastern Conference already prohibits artificial noisemakers, but Mississippi State fans are allowed to ring cowbells during designated periods at home games in Starkville. South Alabama played at Mississippi State two years ago.
Enforcement at the Gates
South Alabama athletics director Joel Erdmann said he does not expect problems enforcing the policy. All bags are subject to search, as they are at every home game.
“If anyone entering the stadium is found to have an artificial noisemaker, they will have to leave it at the gate or return it to their car,” Erdmann said.
An artificial noisemaker used during the game may be confiscated, and the person using it could be escorted from the stadium.
Game Information
South Alabama and Mississippi State kick off at 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. The game will be televised nationally on ESPNews. Local radio coverage is on 99.9 FM, with an online stream through iHeartRadio.
South Alabama is a member of the Sun Belt Conference, and Mississippi State plays in the SEC.
